Today’s cameras are packed with functions and capabilities. Most of us are only using a fraction of what is possible. However, we often just want another function that is not available. What functionality would you like to add to your camera?
I remember my first cameras. They are relatively simple tools with the ability to take pictures. It has a metering system and the ability to set shutter speed and aperture. Aside from the self-timer, there can’t be much else. These cameras are used for one thing, and one thing only: We use them to take pictures of our subjects.
Many things have happened since then. The addition of functions automatically started when we were still using the same reel. But the possibilities that a camera offers have increased dramatically as we enter the digital age. We have choices that were once thought impossible.
For many photographers, taking pictures without autofocus, various complex light metering systems, continuous shooting, or the limit of 36 shots per roll of film is unthinkable. Not to mention eye-catching autofocus for people and animals, and perfect tracking of subjects through the frame.
Modern cameras have even more sophisticated capabilities. time lapse, interval shooting, focus stacking, real-time light collection, exposure simulation in the viewfinder, movie recording, etc. We can develop photos in the camera itself and communicate with smartphones or other devices. We do not take pictures with cameras but with computers.
Never enough
The more functions and possibilities we have, the less satisfied we seem to become. It seems to be just about technology and features, instead of what it should be about: photography. While many of the features included in a camera can help you get the shot you want, technology isn’t always involved.
However, no matter what function the camera has, there is always a function that is not there. Something you want to have. Not because it can, but because it can help you take pictures – or video, for that matter. After all, modern cameras can also be used as film cameras.
Firmware Update
Just like the computers we use at home or in our offices, cameras can also be updated. In most situations, it’s about eliminating bugs in computer software or changing simple things to improve user experience.
Fortunately, it doesn’t have to stop there. It is quite easy to add functions and capabilities to our camera. After all, computers can be programmed in any way we see fit. Maybe the only limit is the amount of memory of the system itself, I think. But again, I don’t know much about these computer systems. However, there is no reason to believe that more functions can be added. Just a simple firmware update is enough.
What functions do I want?
I have used many different brands of cameras. It means I’ve seen a lot of things that are possible and things that could become possible over time. When I look at Canon EOS R5, I’d love to have more options, though I probably won’t need many. I have made a list.
- XF-AVC codec for video like on Canon EOS R5 OLD
- Unlimited video recording time like on Canon EOS R7
- Wave chart for video like on Canon EOS R5 OLD
- Pre-shot option like on Canon EOS R7 and EOS R10
- Custom update to the AF system like on Canon EOS R3 and EOS R7
- Ability to set timer delay and more than one image like on some Camera Sony
- Unlimited 30 seconds with exposure program like on some Nikon’s Z Series
- Added 4:5 crop to aspect ratio
- Canon-like OVF simulation EOS R3
- Real-time light collection (direct bulb) as on some Olympus camera
That’s a long list of wishes, and there probably isn’t enough computer memory to hold all the necessary programs. But in principle, a lot can happen with a major firmware update. Canon has done the same with the addition of vehicle recognition for autofocus and the ability to shut down the engine when it overheats during movie recording.
If I could only choose one function to add Canon EOS R5 camera, it will be live bulb, real-time light collection function Olympus the owner probably knows very well.
Wishes don’t come true
As you probably know, most wishes do not come true. While it depends on the manufacturer, most won’t be adding important functions to their cameras anytime soon. After all, they’ll love you buying their new camera, packed with all those new and improved functions.
This does not mean that they will not add new improved functions. I was referring to Canon’s recent firmware update for the EOS R5. Sony has recently made an autofocus improvement for Camera Sony a7 IV besides that, along with a few other things. I believe Nikon has done similar things with Z 6 and Z 7 . mirrorless camerasand Fujifilm added new features in the past.
But most of the time, firmware updates are just minor improvements and to get rid of known bugs in the camera software. That’s a good thing of course, but a bit limiting. It would be nice if new functions were added from time to time.
What functionality would you like to see?
I’m sure your camera also has many functions and capabilities, except for one that you want to have. Maybe it’s not such a big deal, but it’s nice to have. If you could just want one functionality added with a firmware update, what would it be?
Please share your wishes in the comments below. I can’t give you anything, and I doubt a producer would read these comments and think: let’s add this functionality. But it would be nice to see what’s missing on a certain camera. I look forward to your feedback.
